Analysed using data from the 2015/16 financial year, the research shows a range of positive outcomes from physical activity in London, including almost £0.5bn of cost savings associated with preventative health[1], £10m through instances of crime averted[2], and over £5bn associated with subjective mental wellbeing among participants and volunteers in sport[3].

The research, conducted by SIRC, also forecasts the increased social value from growing participation rates in London, showing that an increase of one million in the number of physically active Londoners would be expected to create an additional £1.81bn of social value each financial year, returning an overall forecast social value in excess of £10bn per annum.

Commenting on the research, Tim Copley, Director of Insight and Performance for London Sport, said:

We have long understood that participation in physical activity and sport plays a positive role for people across London, but this report, for the first time, quantifies the incredible impact that it has on our city in stark financial terms.

For me, this research makes two things abundantly clear: that investment in initiatives which support increased participation in physical activity in sport represents a sensible economic decision, and that enabling people to be physically active has a positive impact on all aspects of their life; from improved physical and mental wellbeing to social and community benefits.

In publishing this research, we believe that the case for physical activity and sport is further strengthened, and encourage policymakers in all areas to consider seriously the opportunities presented by physical activity and sport.

[3] £3.42bn subjective wellbeing for participants in physical activity and sport, and £2.4bn subjective wellbeing for volunteers in physical activity and sport, creating an estimated £1,161 in subjective wellbeing value for each regular participant in physical activity, and £2.428 in subjective wellbeing value for each active sport volunteer.